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Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago

897 Reviews 4.57 out of 5 stars Based on 897 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 90% of reviewers
90% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
|
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards. Chicago, USA
Book online or call us

from $30 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago Image 1
Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago Image 2
Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago Image 3
Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago Image 4
Skyline Lake Michigan Tour
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 15 (5.01) days in advance.
30 to 45 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey along Lake Michigan and marvel at Chicago's iconic lakefront sights and attractions.

Cruise along Lake Michigan and enjoy stunning views of Chicago's renowned skyscrapers from a unique vantage point. This tour offers an amazing opportunity to admire the city's breathtaking skyline and architectural wonders.

Sunday – Friday Cruises departing prior to 8:00pm feature recorded narration of the city’s skyline, cruises departing after 8:00pm enjoy some music and the sounds of Lake Michigan aboard our Groove Cruise.

November - April 9 tours are 30 minutes.

Highlights:

Spectacular views of Chicago's famous skyscrapers

Onboard bar serving refreshing drinks

Relaxing and enjoyable sightseeing cruise

Experience Chicago like never before on this serene and scenic Lake Michigan boat tour. Remember to bring your camera to capture those social media worthy photos!

What's Included

  • Pet-friendly
  • Restroom on board
  • Pre-recorded commentary on board
  • Food and drinks (available for purchase and you can also bring your own)
See 1 moreSee 1 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

600 East Grand Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611, USA

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Lake Michigan

Take a sightseeing cruise on Lake Michigan and marvel at all of Chicago's fabulous lakefront sights. Duration of the cruise depends on weather. The cruise will be 45 minutes during the warmer months and 30 during the colder months.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Chicago Skyline (pass by)

On this boat tour, pre-recorded audio will tell you about Chicago's colorful history and famous landmarks as you enjoy the panorama of Chicago's famous skyline! See Chicago's major skyscrapers like the John Hancock Center, Aon, Trump Tower, Willis Tower (Sears Tower) and more. Spot downtown areas like the Gold Coast, Streeterville, Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain, and pass by famous landmarks such as Navy Pier.Feel free to purchase beverages at the onboard bar (cash only). You can also bring aboard your own lunch to enjoy as you relax and admire Chicago from the cruise. This is a perfect way for the entire family to experience Chicago's beautiful lakefront!
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Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower (pass by)

The tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
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Navy Pier (pass by)

Home to 50 acres of parks, promenades, gardens, shops, eateries and attractions, and the Centennial Ferris Wheel.
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Clarence F. Buckingham Fountain (pass by)

Chicago's landmark is considered one of America's finest fountains due to its Beaux-Arts-style landscape design, finely wrought bronze sculpture and innovative use of technology.
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Millennium Park (pass by)

Located within Grant Park, Millennium Park is home to Cloud Gate, or "the bean."
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Chicago Cultural Center (pass by)

The Chicago Cultural Center is the nation's first free municipal cultural center and one of the most visited attractions in Chicago. The stunning landmark building, opened in 1897 as the city's first public library, is home to two magnificent stained-glass domes.
Read more

Chicago Architecture Center (pass by)

The Chicago Architecture Center is home to a 4,000-building scale model of Chicago.
Read more

Historic Water Tower (pass by)

Chicago-focused gallery, specializing in photos, inside a 19th-century Gothic limestone landmark.
Read more
Show 8 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Cruises are dog friendly
  • Beginning November 11th, 2024 through April 2025, cruises will be 30 minutes in length
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 200 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions (9)

Q: Will I get seasick on Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago?

A: If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy. Read more Feb 2023

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-5580SKY

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.57
897 reviews

Average 4.57 out of 5 stars based on 897 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
647
4 stars
161
3 stars
52
2 stars
23
1 star
14
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 15 (5.01) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (9)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.

Filter by:

Q: Will I get seasick on Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago?
A:

If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.

Feb 2023
Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CST).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Pet-friendly.
  • Restroom on board.
  • Pre-recorded commentary on board.
  • Scenic skyline cruise on Lake Michigan.
The following is NOT included:
  • Food and drinks (available for purchase and you can also bring your own).
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago is as follows:

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Pet-friendly
  • Restroom on board
  • Pre-recorded commentary on board
  • Scenic skyline cruise on Lake Michigan
  • Food and drinks (available for purchase and you can also bring your own)

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Cruises are dog friendly
  • Beginning November 11th, 2024 through April 2025, cruises will be 30 minutes in length
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 200 travelers

Report Product Issue

Activity name